Every year on Dec. 7 the world looks back on a date and place that changed history.
Japan's December 7, 1941 surprise attack on Hawaii's Pearl Harbor propelled the U.S. into World War II. In the years since, Pearl Harbor has emerged as a premier tourist destination, attracting nearly two million visitors from around the world each year.
While there's something special about exploring Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, the truth is that there isn't a bad time to visit.
Bucket List
Given the significance of Pearl Harbor, it's not surprising the destination has made its way on to many travelers' bucket lists. So long as you're crossing off bucket list destinations, why not start in the U.S.? You don't even need a passport for this one.
Proximity
Despite its distance from the mainland U.S., Pearl Harbor isn't a destination out in the middle of nowhere. In fact, it's located just west of Honolulu. That said, you don't need to go out of your way to visit Pearl Harbor if you're taking a trip to Oahu.
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Consider this, Waikiki is less than 45 minutes away.
The Weather
Sure, Pearl Harbor and the rest of Oahu is much warmer in the summer months, with the average high temperature nearing 90 degrees. But even in the winter months, the average high never drops below 80 degrees.
Therefore, no matter what time of year you visit you're guaranteed to be comfortable.
It's Free
Admission and parking at the newly renovated and expanded Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is absolutely free to visitors. The same goes for the USS Arizona Memorial.
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Remember, "time-stamped tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's best to arrive early," according to PearlHarborHistoricSites.org.
It Isn't Time-Consuming
Although this Pacific attraction does get busy from time to time, it won't take up your entire day and if worse comes to worst, there's plenty to see while you wait since there are multiple attractions.
The narrated tour of the USS Arizona Memorial lasts only 75 minutes and includes a brief documentary on the history of Pearl Harbor as well as a short boat ride to and from the memorial.
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